Hi Reader!

Our inaugural Leap to Cuenca is officially underway! 🥳

The Turtles arrived last week and activities officially began with our Welcome Gathering on Saturday morning.

Unfortunately, I caught a nasty cold last week and have quarantined myself so Amelia has been showing the Turtles around our old stomping grounds. They've been having a blast! (and I'm not bitter...at all ☹️)

My time hasn't been completely wasted, though. In between naps, I created a NEW Slow Travel Mini Course (it's free). It's a 7-part email series that will show you how to spend more time in each destination, save money with longer stays, make new friends, and several other secrets we've uncovered along the way. You can have it delivered to your inbox by clicking here...​

If you would like to join us on a future Leap, we still have 3 spots available for the Leap to Bali and we're getting ready to announce the next Leap to Kuala Lumpur.

NOTE: If the LINKS do not work, you'll need to disable your VPN, try a different server, or visit AmeliaAndJP.com/NewsArchive to view this newsletter in your browser. Sorry for the inconvenience, but more and more websites are blocking VPN IP Addresses.

News for Global Citizens

Here’s what we learned about the world this week…

Expat News

Why Retirees Are Flocking Overseas for a Better Life

More and more American retirees are ditching the U.S. grind in favor of a warmer, more affordable life and Spain is topping the list. Thanks to lower living costs, a strong public healthcare system, and a visa that welcomes non-working residents with passive income, Spain is emerging as the dream destination. If you’ve been eyeing life abroad after work, this could be the nudge you needed. Source​

The Only Regret After Moving to Spain: Not Going Sooner

A British expat reflecting on her move to Spain revealed that her greatest regret wasn’t about cultural differences, language barriers, or navigating bureaucracy, it was waiting so long to make the leap. Looking back, she wishes she had spent less time hesitating and more time embracing the lifestyle she now enjoys. Her story serves as a reminder that while preparation is important, sometimes the biggest mistake is delaying a decision that could transform your life. Source​

Planning a move abroad? Check out our Move Abroad EXPRESS eCourse (it's on sale for 50% off).

Expat Finances 101: Why You Can’t Wing It Overseas

When you uproot your life and move abroad, your finances don’t simply follow along seamlessly, they demand extra attention. From navigating complex tax rules in multiple countries to managing investments across currencies, securing proper insurance, planning for retirement, and ensuring your estate strategy works in both your home and host nations, there’s a lot more to consider than you might expect. The bottom line? A thoughtful, cross-border financial plan is essential. The “set it and forget it” approach just won’t cut it once you’re living overseas. Source​

She Pays $100/Month Rent in Egypt and She’s Loving It

Sherry Thorpe, a American expat and travel agent, says she now pays just $100 a month in rent while living in Hurghada, Egypt. That number may sound unreal but it comes from negotiating local deals and connecting through word of mouth. Her life is filled with adventure (swimming with dolphins, belly dancing, and more), safety, and an unexpected sense of peace. For her, what started as a “try it and see” move has transformed into a choice she doesn’t regret, and one she hopes inspires others to reimagine what’s possible abroad. Source​

Travel News

New Biometric Requirements for U.S. Travelers Entering Europe

Beginning October 12, 2025, U.S. travelers visiting Europe will face a significant change at the border. The European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will require most non-EU visitors to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and a facial scan, upon their first entry into the Schengen zone. This information will be securely stored for up to three years, streamlining future entries while helping authorities track overstays and strengthen border security. Source​

Sleep Like You’re Flying, But On a Bus

Imagine boarding a night bus across Europe and actually waking up refreshed - that’s exactly what Twiliner is promising. Launching in November, this Swiss startup will run double-deckers with just 21 seats that fully recline into lie-flat beds, complete with WiFi, charging ports, an onboard bar, and a private changing room. With routes connecting cities like Zurich, Amsterdam, and Barcelona, Twiliner aims to turn overnight travel into something you’ll actually look forward to, all while cutting out airport hassle. Source​

50 Stunning Escapes for Two

Whether you dream of wandering vineyards in Tuscany, cozying up by a Scottish loch, or soaking up sun on a remote beach, here are 50 romantic escapes around the globe designed to spark connection and wonder. From tucked-away hideaways to iconic love-song destinations, the options cover every kind of “romantic” so you and your special someone can find the perfect backdrop for your next chapter together. Source​

10 Under-the-Radar Places You’ll Want to Visit in 2026

Forget the usual tourist traps. The latest “Not Hot List” from Intrepid Travel is shining a spotlight on destinations that are just opening up in big ways. Think Tiwai Island in Sierra Leone, the Tien Shan Mountains of Kyrgyzstan, Mexico’s Sierra Norte, Croatia’s Vis Island, and more. The idea? Visit before the masses arrive, support local economies, and experience travel that feels fresh, meaningful, and underappreciated. Source​

Want to explore the world slowly, like we do? Check out the Slow Travel EXPRESS ecourse (it's on sale for 50% off).

Ecuador News

Ecuador Considers a Major Shift in Its Security Strategy

Ecuador’s president is pushing for a national referendum to lift a longstanding constitutional ban on foreign military bases, a bold bid to beef up cooperation against drug cartels. But critics warn it risks compromising sovereignty and underscores the need for a more holistic security strategy. Either way, the November vote will be a turning point for how Ecuador defines its role on the global stage. Source​

Cuenca to Galápagos? It’s Almost a Reality

Cuenca is edging closer to a direct flight connection with the Galápagos Islands. The proposal, championed by CORPAC and LATAM, already has the green light from Galápagos authorities, but still needs final approval from Ecuador’s aviation regulators. If all goes well, Cuenca could soon become a prime jumping-off point for travelers wanting a blend of highland culture and island adventure. Source​

Planning a move to Ecuador? Check out the updated Ecuador EXPRESS eCourse (it's on sale for 50% off).

A Historic First: Paula Torres Puts Ecuador on the World Podium

Paula Torres made history at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, becoming the first Ecuadorian woman to win a medal at an absolute world championship. She won the bronze in the 35 km race walk with a time of 2:42:44, setting a new national record in the process. Her performance not only cements her as a rising star in the race walking discipline but also signals a turning point for Ecuadorian women in international athletics. Source​

Shock Gold: Ecuador’s Angulo Stuns the World in Javelin

At just 24 years old and ranked 31st going into the finals, Juleisy Angulo threw a jaw-dropping 65.12 m to win gold in the women’s javelin at the World Championships. It wasn’t just a win, it was historic: she became the first Ecuadorian woman to claim a world title in a non–race-walking event. She pushed past past injuries, two knee surgeries, and her own expectations to rise onto the top of the podium. Source​

Everything is ON SALE!

We just launched our Fall Sale and everything is 50% Off (for a limited time).

If you need some extra help on your journey to a new shore, whatever that shore may be, one of our eCourses might help you get there faster, easier, and with fewer costly mistakes (like the ones we made):

• ​Slow Travel EXPRESS eCourse – Fast track your slow travel lifestyle by learning how to simplify the logistics so you can focus on what matters most: meaningful experiences, personal freedom, and the joy of slow travel.
• ​Move Abroad EXPRESS eCourse – Fast track your move abroad by learning how to wrap up your old life at home, get everything prepared for your move abroad, and get settled into your new home away from home.
• ​Ecuador EXPRESS eCourse – Fast track your move to Ecuador by learning how to wrap up your old life at home, get everything prepared for your move to Ecuador, and get settled into your new life.
• ​Online Income EXPRESS eCourse – Learn how to earn income online so you can live anywhere.

If your dream is to leave the US and move abroad in the next year, now is the time to get started and we're here to help.

That's all for this week! Let me know if you have questions by replying to this email 👍

JP (Amelia says hola!)​
​AmeliaAndJP.com​

P.S. Join us in Bali this January! We still have 3 spots left for our Leap to Bali starting January 23rd. We're going to have so much fun exploring the island, sharing meals, and making new lifelong friendships from a comfortable homebase near the beach. Submit Your Booking Request now and we'll see you in Bali 🥳